Magnesium melt

is produced in steel crucibles. The main application is found in pressure die-cast- ing foundries. The furnaces can be heated by induction resistance or by fuels. In recycling operations with annual throughputs of > approx. 3,000 t/p.a. and scrap dimensions of approx. 500x200x50, the inductively-heated steel crucible furnace manufactured by ABB is used successfully. These furnaces are available with capac- ities of approx.800 kg with 400 kW and 1,500 kg with 560 kW. Ceramically-lined magnesium furnaces have not proven popular for recycling purposes due to the high level of dross. Ceramically-lined magnesium furnaces of 7 and 10 t capacity are operated in the USA, although these are operated with 1/3 sump and charged pigs. The pigs come from Russian and Chinese production, and contain impurities which are then cleaned out in these furnaces. The furnaces have to remain in oper- ation continuously, since the tamping compound must not be allowed to cool off.

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